Wonderful place to learn and practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that is backed by the Gracie Academy. Their "combatives" program teaches you the most used techniques in real street self defense, and it serves as a great introduction to the world of BJJ. You get a monthly calendar with the techniques that will be covered in each class, and with the included access to GracieUniversity.com you can even watch detailed videos prior and after the class. The instructors are extremely nice, knowledgeable, and patient. You can tell that they are eager to share their knowledge with you. Instructors always cover all the necessary training information so that you don't get hurt while performing a technique. In each class they show you in detail, and from multiple angles, how the technique is supposed to be performed, highlighting miniscule details that will make the technique more effective. Instructors also introduce the more complicated techniques in "baby steps" that you get to practice separate, and at the end you combine all the steps to perform the complete technique. Another thing the instructors do is show you different variations of the technique, that you can apply depending on what the attacker is doing. Usually each class teaches you a couple techniques, one standing and one on the floor. Each of these usually have multiple different variations. You get to train with a partner all these techniques and variations several times during the class. Once you take all the classes 3 times, and master these techniques, which they say takes about 8 months, they give you and exam that is recorded on video and a black belt reviews it at the Gracie University. If you pass the exam you obtain a Combatives belt that represents that you know the 30+ most common techniques of street self defense. After that you can continue with your learning towards a blue belt. I highly recommend this Gracie University backed gym. It's structured program is easy to follow and you get to see clearly what you need to do to advance in the program. read more

Excellent!!! our daughter has been going here for the past 2 years. The instructors, Coach Cliff and Coach Jennifer are wonderful. They are patient and kind and caring with the children, but also maintain structure throughout the class. Even while learning techniques, they make the classes fun and engaging, using games to help teach the techniques. Another thing I love about this place are character development lessons. Every couple of months, they focus on a different theme, like Health, Manners, Citizenship, etc. They are not only learning how to defend themselves if needed, but also learning about things like positive self talk, good health and hygiene, healthy foods, how to be respectful and have good manners, stranger danger, and more. I also love that they teach to avoid fights at all costs, but that you can and should defend yourself. I cannot say enough good things about Gracie Jiu Jits Baymeadows! read more

I'm ecstatic to find that a Certified Training Center (CTC) now exists in the Jacksonville, FL area! You will find that GJJ Baymeadows is the only (CTC) in the Jacksonville area that follows the same system and curriculum taught by Ryron & Rener Gracie at the Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy in Torrance, California. If you are the type looking for a sport/competition focused school, this academy may not be your best bet. If, on the other hand, you are like me, looking for a self-defense focused school, this is certainly a place to check out. I've had the opportunity to experience both types of training environments at various schools and have found there is a distinct difference in the training and techniques, based on the focus of the school. So, think about why you want to learn jiu jitsu. If it's self-defense, I would definitely encourage you to stop by. read more

If you have been on the fence about training a martial art for self defense purposes then look no further than Gracie Jiu Jitsu Baymeadows. I promise this is not just another jiu jitsu school - it is so much more! This academcy follows the same curriculum as the Gracie Jiu Jitsu Acadmey run by Ryron and Rener Gracie in Torrence, CA. Because of that, you know you are learning solid techniques focused on building fundamentals and self defense techniques. As a woman, I appreciate the collaborative atmosphere and find all of the instructors to be wonderful and full of knowledge. Highly recommend GJJ Baymeadows! read more

I came to Gracie to do something for myself. I had been contemplating doing some type of self defense, but wasn't sure what exactly. A surgeon I follow on social media mentioned his wife did Gracie Women Empowered. So after researching and finding a training center in my area, I visited. That was in May and i'm still here! The tools I've been shown have been a valuable resource. I feel confident that I could defend myself, I feel empowered and the classes are fun. The coaches are well trained and ready to assist and answer questions. Bonus is that you make friends too! read more

My wife decided on a whim to try a self defense class at Gracie and she immediately came home and told me how much she enjoyed it. That was probably 6 months ago now and she has been attending classes regularly ever since. I love that she's becoming more and more confident in her ability to protect herself and she's loved getting to know many of the students along the way. The instructors are great and always keep the classes interesting. I would recommend Gracie to anyone else looking for the same. read more

Amazing jujitsu class with knowledgeable instructors who break down techniques clearly and effectively. The environment is welcoming and supportive, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced practitioners. I've seen great improvement in my skills and confidence! read more

Great place to learn and train with clear instructions. The way classes are structured prevent injury, giving plenty of time to understand each move. A very fun atmosphere with no ego. Highly recommend. read more

My daughter loves being a part of this Baymeadows Jiu Jitsu team. She has been taking classes for over a year now. I can definitely say that it is excellent. read more

outstanding academy! I can't say enough good things about this place. Cliff is an excellent instructor. Very thorough and patient. I would highly recommend. read more

The coaches are very professional and friendly. My two kids (ages 5 & 6) have a blast and have learned so many excellent skills! Highly recommend! read more

Cliff is methodical in the instruction he gives and ensures you understand the technique thoroughly. Great place to learn Jiu Jitsu!

Coach Cliff is awesome. We love coming here for my son's class and I recently joined the master cycle for adults as well.

Baymeadows BJJ is an awesome school. I recommend it to anyone looking for great instruction and a welcoming environment!

Amazing group with the best curriculum in the business! A must for anyone thinking about training BJJ!

Great minds - teaching great techniques. Everyone here practices safely. Great environment.